Explore Paraíba Do Sul through its springs, viewpoints and local history. Squares, cultural venues and railway structures offer insight into a range of historical and cultural themes.

Springs, Views and Waterways

Parque Salutaris is home to springs with alkaline, magnesium-rich and iron-rich water.

Pedra da Tocaia offers a different perspective on nature: it is the highest point in the city and offers a view of Paraíba Do Sul. It can only be reached by trails through densely forested areas; the attraction is recommended for experienced visitors.

Cachoeira Agronômica is on Ribeirão do Lucas, a right-bank tributary of the Rio Paraíba do Sul, about one kilometer upstream from the city center. The two destinations offer quite different experiences for nature outings: Tocaia is all about the views and access through dense forest, while Cachoeira Agronômica is located by a tributary, about a kilometer upstream.

The Square and Local History

Jardim Velho, also known as São João Marcos, is a large square with numerous royal palms arranged in the shape of a Maltese cross since 1868. The municipality’s first settlement took shape at Jardim Velho, or São João Marcos, on the banks of the Rio Paraíba do Sul. The arrangement of the palms defines the square, while its location by the river connects Jardim Velho with the area’s early settlement history.

Culture and Handicrafts

Ari Barroso performed the song Aquarela do Brasil in public for the first time at Teatro Mariano Aranha. Today, the theater houses the Fundação Cultural. Music history and a contemporary cultural function thus come together in one place.

The former railway station now houses the Centro Cultural Maria de Lourdes Tavares. Visitors can discover the work of local artisans there, especially the embroidery of Paraíba Do Sul. The two cultural venues have different focuses: Teatro Mariano Aranha links a historic musical performance with the present-day Fundação Cultural, while the Centro offers insights into local handicrafts.

Railway History

Paraíba Do Sul railway station was inaugurated in 1867 in the presence of Emperor Pedro II. The Ponte Leopoldo Teixeira Leite was built in 1898 by engineer Paulo de Frontin for railway traffic. It is also known as Ponte Preta and connects the Ponte Preta and Jatobá neighborhoods. The former Estrada Real railway line is now out of service.

More Places to Visit in the Municipality

The Santuário Jubilar Bom Jesus de Matosinhos is located in the municipality’s Inconfidência District, also known as Sebollas. It welcomes pilgrims; pilgrimages must be arranged in advance, especially because of service times and other pastoral activities. The Museu Histórico de Tiradentes is in the same district. It received some of Tiradentes’ remains, as well as personal belongings of the martyr of the Inconfidência. The two destinations also differ in terms of planning: pilgrimages must be arranged in advance, while the museum has a historical connection to Tiradentes.

Handmade Sweets

For a culinary highlight, try handmade sweets in Paraíba Do Sul. They add a local flavor to the area’s natural and cultural attractions.

Discover more destinations: Ponte Coberta, Nova Friburgo, Resende, Sana, Tanguá, São João De Meriti, Tamoios, São Fidélis

For the main travel overview: Rio De Janeiro.